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Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Achiness. Fatigue. Sore throat. Chills. Is it a cold or the flu? It can sometimes be hard to tell the difference.

In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness and dry cough are more common and intense. The flu will also typically come on suddenly.

Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations - which can happen with the flu.

Here's a quick chart to help you decipher symptoms of each:

Symptom

Cold

Flu

Runny or Stuffy Nose

Yes

Yes

Nasal Congestion

Yes

Yes

Sneezing

Yes

Sometimes

Cough

Sometimes

Yes (Usually Dry)

Fever

Sometimes (Mild)

Yes (Though Not Always)

Muscle Aches

Yes

Yes (Can Be Severe)

Fatigue

Yes

Yes (Can Be Extreme)

Scratchy/Sore Throat

Yes

Yes

Headache

Yes

Yes

Vomiting/Diarrhea

No

Yes (Most Common in Children)

What to Do if You Have the Flu

If you think you may have the flu, visit our special flu section to find out how to treat it or see a doctor at one of our clinics, outpatient centers or hospitals. Find one near you.

And of course, it's always better to prevent the flu. If you haven't gotten a flu shot yet, make a point to get one now. Flu season typically peaks in January and February here in Wisconsin.

Don't forget to wash your hands. Hand washing is one of the single most effective ways to fight off colds and flu.